What is the coverage period for Washington DC's lemon law?

Washington DC's lemon law covers defects that occur within 24 months or 18,000 miles of the vehicle's delivery date, whichever comes first.

How many repair attempts are required in Washington DC?

Four or more repair attempts for the same defect, or if the vehicle is out of service for 30 or more calendar days. For serious safety defects, only one repair attempt may be required.

Does Washington DC require arbitration?

Yes, Washington DC requires consumers to first participate in the manufacturer's informal dispute resolution program if one exists before filing a lawsuit under the lemon law.

What makes Washington DC's lemon law unique?

Washington DC's law provides strong consumer protections, includes provisions for both new and leased vehicles, and has specific requirements for manufacturer compliance. The district also offers clear guidelines for calculating refunds and replacements.

Washington DC Lemon Law Guide

Washington D.C. Lemon Law Overview

The Washington D.C. Lemon Law, found in D.C. Code § 50-501 through § 50-511, protects consumers who purchase new vehicles that have recurring defects. If a manufacturer fails to fix a substantial issue after a reasonable number of attempts, consumers may be eligible for a replacement or refund.

Key Features

Covers new vehicles purchased or registered in D.C.
1 year or 18,000 miles of coverage (whichever comes first)
Applies to personal-use passenger vehicles
Requires written notice and a final repair attempt

Qualification Requirements

Your Vehicle Qualifies If:

The defect arises within 18,000 miles or 1 year of delivery
The issue substantially impairs use, value, or safety
4 or more repair attempts for the same problem, OR
The vehicle was out of service for 30+ cumulative days
You sent written notice and allowed a final repair opportunity

Important Timeframes

Coverage Period

Applies during the first 18,000 miles or 1 year after delivery—whichever comes first

Repair Attempts

At least 4 attempts for the same issue, OR
Vehicle has been out of service for 30+ days

Notice Requirement

You must send written notice to the manufacturer before filing a claim

Note: Still under warranty? Even if you're outside the usual mileage or time limits, you may still qualify for lemon law protection if the issue occurred during the manufacturer's warranty period. It's worth getting a free case review.

Available Remedies

Refund

Full purchase price minus usage fees

Replacement

A comparable new vehicle

Attorney Fees

You may be eligible for attorney's fees if you win your case

Washington D.C. Lemon Law Process

1. Gather Records

Track repair attempts, dates, mileage, and issues
Keep invoices, service orders, and all correspondence

2. Send Notice

Send written notice to the manufacturer giving them a final repair opportunity

3. File a Claim

File a lemon law claim or lawsuit if unresolved
Consult an attorney to explore your legal options

Washington D.C. Lemon Law FAQs

Does D.C. Lemon Law apply to used vehicles?

No, the law only applies to new vehicles used for personal purposes.

How many repair attempts qualify?

Four or more for the same issue, or if the car is out of service for 30 cumulative days.

Do I need to give notice?

Yes. The manufacturer must be given written notice and a chance to repair the problem one final time.

Can I get legal help?

Yes. If you win your case, the manufacturer may be required to pay your attorney's fees.

Need Help With Washington D.C. Lemon Law?

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Washington D.C. Lemon Law

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